Answer :
Final answer:
Prep tables must be cleaned and sanitized between uses to prevent cross-contamination and ensure food safety.
Explanation:
Prep tables must be cleaned and sanitized between uses to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and pathogens. Cleaning removes visible dirt and debris from the surface of the table, while sanitizing kills bacteria and reduces the microbial load to safe levels.
Cross-contamination can occur when germs from one food item come into contact with another, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses. By cleaning and sanitizing prep tables between uses, you eliminate any potential cross-contamination and ensure the safety of the food being prepared.
For example, if raw meat is cut on a prep table and then fresh vegetables are chopped on the same surface without cleaning and sanitizing in between, bacteria from the raw meat can transfer to the vegetables, which can cause food poisoning if consumed.
